A 51-year-old middle school teacher has resigned after being accused of inappropriately touching a student, according to police.

Police arrested Edwin Thomas, of Greenville, on Friday on a charge of third-degree assault and battery.

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A police incident report said a Greer Middle School student reported that during the week prior to spring break, Thomas cornered her in a classroom and told her what a great student she was. Other students told Thomas that the girl “needed a hug,” the report says.

The report said when Thomas moved toward the girl to give her a hug, she told him "No," and moved a desk to get away from him. She said Thomas then chased her and hugged her from behind.

The girl told police that the incident was not the first time that Thomas had made her feel uncomfortable, and that he had whispered in her ear comments about her having beautiful hair. She said he rubbed her shoulder and back, and had made comments that he should have videotaped her and her friends “goofing around.” She said he also told her to let him know if she ever went up for adoption.

Police said three other students corroborated the girl’s description of the hugging incident.

Beth Brotherton, with Greenville County Schools, said in an email: “When these allegations surfaced, Mr. Thomas was placed on administrative leave and law enforcement was contacted. He has resigned his position.”

Thomas was hired by Greenville County Schools in August of 2015 and worked only at Greer Middle, school officials said.